The Greek verb anabállomai (ἀναβάλλομαι) means to put off, postpone, or defer. It appears once in Acts 24:22 where Felix defers Paul's case — a politically motivated delay of justice.
Felix's postponement of Paul's case is a masterclass in the danger of spiritual procrastination. Felix had heard enough — he knew Paul was innocent, knew about the Way, and when Paul spoke about righteousness, self-control and the judgment to come, Felix was afraid and asked Paul to leave, promising to call for him when convenient. The convenient time never came. Felix represents all who hear the gospel and delay their response, waiting for a better moment that never arrives. Scripture's urgent refrain is: Today, if you hear his voice, do not harden your hearts (Hebrews 3:7-8).